When picturing jobs in the tech industry, many people initially think of software developers. Without a doubt, software engineers are critical for technological advancement; however, they are not the only integral members of the Information Technology field. The Software Quality Assurance (QA) testing team is equally crucial for the success of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and the roles that come with it.
In May 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics shared that software engineers and software quality assurance analysts made an average annual salary of $107,510 (50th percentile). These careers are highly lucrative and attract individuals with similar educational and experiential backgrounds, especially those with a passion for mathematics, engineering, or computer science. However, they necessitate markedly distinct knowledge and skillsets.
Both Software Quality Assurance (QA) Testers and Software Engineers are crucial in every step of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). It is essential to discern the distinctions between these two concepts and fully comprehend the worth they offer to the development process. Through meticulous analysis, we can arrive at a deeper understanding of these two roles and the influence they wield throughout the development process.
Undertake Responsibilities of Both a Software Developer and a Quality Assurance Tester
What sets software developers apart from QA specialists? Here is a summary of the responsibilities inherent in each of these fields.
Software Creator
Software developers are responsible for creating software solutions, such as mobile apps and websites that meet the needs of their clients, employers, or other stakeholders. To excel in this position, they must possess a thorough comprehension of various programming languages and associated technologies, including the frameworks and development environments. Staying updated with the newest technologies and industry trends is crucial to remain competitive in this field.
Basic testing, such as unit testing, is conducted on the product during the development process to ensure it operates as intended. The primary aim of this is not to comprehensively test the product and eradicate all issues, but to pinpoint and solve problems that negatively impact the product’s fundamental features.
Developing software entails much more than simply writing code. A software developer may be responsible for everything from conceiving of a program to researching user requirements and determining the most effective way to implement them.
Software QA Tester
Software Quality Assurance (QA) testers are an indispensable component of software development. As their title suggests, these Information Technology professionals are responsible for conducting testing on the program to ensure it meets all the predetermined requirements. During the testing process, they must consider various factors such as functionality, performance, usability, volume, load, stress, and security to assess the software. Without the contributions of the QA testers, the software would not be able to reach its full potential.
Automated and manual testing are commonly utilized in the Quality Assurance (QA) process. It is crucial that a human QA professional is involved in authoring the automated testing scripts to ensure that the final product is appropriate for its intended users and has minimal defects.
It is crucial to differentiate between the aim of Quality Assurance (QA) testing and the idea of a product being completely error-free. The objective of QA professionals is to detect as many problems and defects as possible, allowing the software developers to address them and make the appropriate enhancements. Any remaining bugs in the current product will be rectified in a future update.
Close collaboration between the development team and the quality assurance team is critical to producing a high-quality product that is market-ready. Within the Software Development Life Cycle, these two roles are the most interdependent of all positions.
Although most of the testing takes place towards the end of the development cycle, testing earlier can have numerous advantages. This approach enables testers to identify major bugs that could negatively impact the product’s functionality and quality before developers have invested considerable resources into the project.
Potential Careers
Developing and testing software are two crucial components of the software development process, each with numerous job prospects. Below are examples of the most typical roles held by software developers and testers, although this list is not exhaustive.
Building Programs
- User Interface Designer
- Backend Programmer
- Full-Stack Expert Programmer
- Mobile Engineer
- Website Creator
- App Developer
- Video Game Developer
- Data Analyst
- DevOps Technician
Ensuring Quality
- Quality Assurance Analyst
- Quality Assurance Engineer
- Software Testing Specialist
- Functional Analyst
- Automated Systems Mechanical Designer
- Man vs. Machine Testing
- Quality Assurance Manager
- Test Design Architect
As an SDET or Software Development Engineer in Test, you hold a unique position wherein you are responsible for developing software used for quality assurance testing. This may entail writing automation tests, generating test code, creating frameworks, and other essential components for the SDLC or Software Development Life Cycle. In this respect, you are an essential contributor to the software development process, with a pivotal part to play, alongside the other team members.
Skills and Abilities
Software Engineers and Quality Assurance Testers require a broad range of skills that are essential for their respective roles. However, some skills are more vital in one setting than the other. For instance, key transferable abilities that are crucial for both roles include problem-solving, attention to detail, communication, teamwork, and the ability to think innovatively. It’s worth noting that some of these abilities overlap across both roles, hence it’s imperative to develop them to the highest standard.
Computer Code Writer
- Programming
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
- Communication
- Attention to Detail
- Adaptability
- Logic
- Multitasking
- Curiosity
- Concentration
- Teamwork
Quality Assurance (QA) Inspector
- Analytical
- Interpersonal
- Communication
- Keen Attention to Detail
- Organizational
- Efficiency
- Intelligent Thinking
- Problem-solving Based on Meticulous Analysis and Reflection
- Agility
- Data Analysis
- Teamwork
Whether referred to as Software Engineers or Quality Assurance Testers, they have a significant role in the development of effective software. Hence, when considering a career in this field, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate one’s skills and interests, as both roles demand specific abilities and levels of commitment.
Remember that there’s a vast selection of software and hardware to choose from. Therefore, it’s crucial to identify the sector that aligns the most with your skills, strengths, and interests, whether it be in Information Technology, technical writing, or project management.
